Staff

Kimberly R. Lyle is a collaborative leader advancing impact finance and affordable housing development with an unwavering commitment to social and economic equity in partnership with historically underinvested communities. Having grown up in affordable housing and experienced firsthand the transformative impact of community-based support programs, Kimberly brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to her work of ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive and realize their potential.

As Chief Executive Officer of Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (DBEDC), Kimberly leads a powerhouse Boston-based organization that combines the reach of a community development corporation (CDC) with the financial impact of a community development financial institution (CDFI). Under her leadership, DBEDC’s dynamic $229 million portfolio includes 900+ affordable rental homes, 40,000 square feet of thriving commercial space, a $2 million microenterprise loan fund energizing local entrepreneurs, and $11 million in operating revenue.

Colleagues and partners know Kimberly for her incisive wit, unwavering persistence, and remarkable ability to see connections that others miss. These qualities, combined with her grit and strategic thinking, have proven invaluable in navigating complex development projects and creating innovative financing solutions that meet community needs.

Known for challenging the status quo, Kimberly has positioned DBEDC at the forefront of equitable development and inclusive economic opportunity creation. She honors the organization’s deep community roots while pushing boundaries to tackle today’s pressing challenges in housing affordability, economic mobility, and small business empowerment. Her strategic approach combines robust financial stewardship with responsive community engagement, ensuring that DBEDC’s growth directly translates to increased community impact.

Kimberly brings rich cross-sector experience from her previous leadership roles in technology, financial services, and higher education. This diverse background fuels her innovative approach to business operations, organizational strategy, and policy advocacy – always oriented toward measurable impact and lasting change.

Her commitment to mission-driven leadership extends beyond DBEDC. As Board Chair of the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, she guides a CDFI that empowers worker-owned cooperatives and socially responsible enterprises. She serves as Vice President of the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations and shapes economic development as a board member of the Massachusetts Development Finance Agency. Through these roles, she champions policies and practices that advance equitable access to capital and economic opportunity across the region.

A proud Bostonian whose academic journey reflects her intellectual curiosity, Kimberly holds a Master of Public Policy from Tufts University and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Rutgers University. Her graduate studies in social anthropology at Harvard University deepen her understanding of human-centered development – knowledge she puts into action every day in service of creating more equitable and vibrant communities.

As the Chief of Staff, Rho provides executive assistance to the chief executive officer, while also serving as a strategic thought partner. She uses her extensive background in
administrative operations to create and maintain cross-departmental relationships and assists in managing large-scale initiatives and special projects.

Prior to joining the Dorchester Bay EDC team, Rho spent several years in administrative operations in Corporate Banking. She oversaw the daily operations, budget management, and personnel administration for multiple locations. Rho implemented policies and procedures to ensure compliance, efficiency, and safety, enhancing employee satisfaction and engagement. She also served as the point person for the DEI Committee in the Boston region, was a Volunteer Ambassador, and facilitated financial literacy programming for several years.

With a BA in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Rho has a strong background in human behavior, motivation, and communication, which she leveraged to develop and execute strategic initiatives, such as community outreach, business development, and customer service. She also has proven skills in executive administrative assistance, program and project management, and problem-solving, which enabled her to support senior management and stakeholders, deliver high-quality results, and resolve complex issues.

Rho is a Bostonian at heart and is passionate about pouring back into her community. She attended Boston Public Schools and went to camp at the Shelburne Center in Roxbury every summer as a child. In her spare time Rho enjoys working out at the gym, traveling, spending time with family and friends.

[email protected]

(617) 533-9559

At Dorchester Bay EDC, Samariah works to define and cultivate an organizational culture that is collaborative, inclusive, empowering, and culturally sensitive, while administering all human resources functions. Prior to this role, Samariah worked in many HR leadership roles with a focus in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Samariah’s career in human resources began in 2011 with Upham’s Community Care (previously Upham’s Community Health Center). Previously, she was the HR Director for the Department of Transitional Assistance where she supported a staff of over 1,600 employees. She also served as the Employee Relations Specialist for the Massachusetts Teachers Association. Samariah is currently enrolled in the MBA HR Management accelerated program with Fitchburg State University and is expected to graduate in 2024.

[email protected]
617-533-9551

Susan is the Director of Real Estate. Prior to DBEDC, Susan worked at a Chinatown nonprofit where she led the organization through several affordable housing development initiatives and projects, including the development of 85 new units of affordable rental housing. Before entering the world of affordable housing, Susan practiced law for several years, representing individuals, private companies, and nonprofit organizations in various civil and transactional matters, including zoning appeals.

[email protected]
617-533-9561

Tia Jackson is an accomplished, achievement-driven financial services business manager with FINRA series 7, 66, Property & Casualty, Life Accident and Health licenses, and 20+ years in leadership roles. She has relevant and diverse experience in corporate sales and marketing, relationship management, customer-obsessed service, and a strong background in overseeing operational activities. Tia has enjoyed collaborating and working strategically with key leaders and business partners across business lines. She also enjoys contributing as part of a team and sharing her holistic financial planning expertise and experience, along with coaching and developing financial professionals who highly value building meaningful long-term client relationships and customized financial solutions to meet their needs and goals. She aligns well with a work culture that highly values coaching, which leads to growth at every level.

Tia is passionate about building personal relationships based on trust. She’s an advocate for her clients with whom she can relate by serving the needs of individuals, families, and small businesses. She enjoys contributing to improving the lives of others and working together to build a foundation that makes our communities better and stronger.

Tia’s interests include running, hiking, bicycling, travel, cooking, dining out, gardening, community service, and spending time with family and friends.

[email protected]

As the Director of Workforce Development at Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (DBEDC), Carolina Leins-Sultan leads the strategic planning, design, and execution of the Dorchester Bay Workforce Development Program. With over 15 years of dedicated experience as a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), Carolina has transitioned from direct service roles to impactful program management, driving systemic change and enhancing community well-being.

Carolina holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her expertise is further enhanced by certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Trauma-Informed Child Welfare, Multi-Contextual Trauma Treatment, and Forensic Services. These credentials support her comprehensive approach to workforce development.

In her previous role as Strategic Partnerships and Workforce Development Program Manager, Carolina managed grants and spearheaded initiatives to engage diverse stakeholders, promote supplier diversity, and increase and diversify the energy efficiency workforce. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to serving marginalized communities, advocating for others, and empowering individuals to enhance their skills and achieve self-sufficiency.

Fluent in Spanish, Carolina effectively engages and supports diverse communities. Her strategic leadership and commitment to equity drive sustainable solutions and foster long-term societal impact. Carolina is a Boston-native and is committed to serving her community.

[email protected]
(617) 533-9573

Samantha Menard is the Resource Development Manager at Dorchester Bay EDC. She is a visionary strategist expertly devising tactical action plans to support and raise vital funds for programs that promote economically equitable outcomes. She oversees the Resource Development team, responsible for fundraising, grant direction, and donor relations.

For the last 15 years, Samantha has been amplifying resources, power, and collaboration in nonprofit spaces committed to social justice. Before DBEDC, she served as a Chief Operating Officer for an organization that supports non-violent, mother-tongue education in rural communities of Haiti.

Samantha holds a Master of Media Management and a Bachelor of Arts from Boston University. She is an avid traveler currently DIY-ing a zen backyard space, struggling to discover her green thumb, and experimenting in the kitchen with her two spirited preschoolers.

[email protected]
617-533-9569

Angie is an outgoing and passionate person who strongly believes everyone deserves a place to call home! She has worked in different departments throughout her time in affordable housing, such as inspections, compliance, and of course resident services. Throughout her experience, she has learned that being out in her community and serving the residents is exactly where she is supposed to be.

As a member of the community and having over 10 years of housing experience, she looks forward to being an advocate for residents, and a support system for the management team. Angie encourages the community to advocate for the changes that they want to see. Her number one goal is to reassure them that they are living and working in the safest and most enjoyable community, all while staying in compliance with their lease.

[email protected]
617-533-9576

Steve is the Director of Operations at DBEDC, where he oversees day-to-day operations and manages the policies and operational infrastructure of the organization.  As an integral member of the senior leadership team, he leads the operations team and serves as a strategic thought partner to the CEO.

Drawing from an extensive entrepreneurial and operational background spanning financial services, edtech, SaaS (Software as a Service), and media, Steve brings a thoughtful and innovative approach to solving problems, leading teams, and shaping strategic initiatives. Among his notable achievements, he co-founded the edtech startup Money Experience Inc. where he led the development of an award-winning financial literacy software platform that was widely adopted by K-12, higher ed, non-profits, and financial institutions.  As Head of Operations at Redstar Media, he helped build a thriving community around live-produced events and video content, resulting in 3 Emmy Awards and many more nominations.  Most recently, he supported startups and small businesses in his role as Director of Operations at the financial services firm Mighty Financial.  Steve’s time as a business leader and entrepreneur was preceded by a successful career in the music industry, working in the studio with Grammy Award-winning producers and touring with renowned artists both nationally and internationally.

Steve has lived in the Boston area for over 25 years and currently resides in Medford.  He enjoys spending time with his family at the beach, fishing, bike riding, and hiking in the Fells.

[email protected]

Sharat has spent over two decades working with nonprofits in Philadelphia and Boston. He takes pride in bringing sound financial management and governance to the organizations he supports as an employee, volunteer and board member. His career has involved diverse issue areas including:  sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, re-entry, special education and mental health. Sharat holds an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and a BA from New York University. In his spare time, he enjoys playing the saxophone, guitar, piano and singing. He is also an active member of the Merrimack River Rowing Association.

[email protected]

Sharat has spent over two decades working with nonprofits in Philadelphia and Boston. He takes pride in bringing sound financial management and governance to the organizations he supports as an employee, volunteer and board member. His career has involved diverse issue areas including:  sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, re-entry, special education and mental health. Sharat holds an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and a BA from New York University. In his spare time, he enjoys playing the saxophone, guitar, piano and singing. He is also an active member of the Merrimack River Rowing Association.

[email protected]

Shermaine volunteers with African Bridge Network which is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting new immigrants navigate the and overcome the obstacles which foreign trained professionals often come upon when they relocate to the USA and try to find jobs in their area of training and experience. ABN partners with a number of organizations to place new immigrants in fellowship roles, which often lead to permanent employment or at least relevant work experience gained within the USA. Outside of work, Shermaine is an avid traveler and nature enthusiast. On the weekends you will often find her in the Middlesex Fells, Breakheart Reservation, the Blue Hills, or exploring one of the many seaside towns on Boston’s north shore. Shermaine has been to over 22 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Botswana.

[email protected]

Sylvia is an accomplished accounting and finance professional with nine years of experience in financial management and analysis, including five years dedicated to the real estate investment and asset management industry. She holds a Master’s degree in Accounting from The University of Queensland and is a certified CPA in Australia. Currently, she is preparing for the US CPA license. Outside of work, Sylvia enjoys cooking, traveling, and quality time with her family.

[email protected]

With over 20 years of diverse financial and administrative experience, Jessica currently serves as an Accountant at Dorchester Bay EDC.

Jessica’s background includes over 10 years as an Accountant Assistant in the retail food & beverage industry with The Briar Group, one of Boston’s leading and longest standing independently owned restaurant groups. Jessica’s career journey also includes roles as a Medical Billing Supervisor and Administrative Coordinator, demonstrating expertise in invoicing, vendor relations, tax compliance, office operations, and internal controls. She holds a foundation in Business Administration/Accounting from Massasoit Community College, with a Bookkeeping I & II certification from Miami Dade College.

A proud Dominican-American, Boston native, Jessica currently resides in Roxbury with her 13-year-old son and maintains strong ties to the Hispanic community and local family-owned small businesses. Beyond her professional life, Jessica enjoys travel, all Boston sports, is an avid reader, and embraces a diverse taste in music.

[email protected]

Bill helps to lead all that is Finance, including financial reporting, compliance, Audit , Tax, G/L, P/R, A/R ,& A/P and program support. He is a Graduate of Belmont High School, Belmont, MA and Suffolk University, Boston, MA. Previously Bill worked at Schepens Retina Associates, Boston Medical Center, Greater Boston YMCA, Society for Organizational Learning, and The Boston Conservatory. Bill lives in Arlington, MA with his wife Maggie and son Liam, a Junior at Arlington High School.

[email protected]
617-533-9557

Kim oversees DBEDC’s 1200-unit portfolio of affordable housing and commercial real estate. She has over a decade of Asset Management experience and has overseen many communities including Rural Development, Tax Credit and Section 8 properties in both non-profit and for-profit sectors. She began her journey as an Asset Manager at Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation. She has over a decade of experience in Asset Management primarily in affordable housing in both non- profit and for- profit sectors. She began her journey as an Asset Manager at Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation, a Boston based non-profit syndicator, where she managed a Low Income Housing Tax Credits and New Market Tax Credits portfolio and worked with various investors, developers and management companies throughout the New England area. While at Boston Financial, a Boston based syndicator, she managed a national portfolio consisting of Metro and Rural residential developments with various layers of subsidies. Kim holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Emmanuel College. Outside of work, Kim enjoys crafting, Caribbean cultural arts and spending time with her family.

[email protected]

Steve is the Director of Operations at DBEDC, where he oversees day-to-day operations and manages the policies and operational infrastructure of the organization.  As an integral member of the senior leadership team, he leads the operations team and serves as a strategic thought partner to the CEO.

Drawing from an extensive entrepreneurial and operational background spanning financial services, edtech, SaaS (Software as a Service), and media, Steve brings a thoughtful and innovative approach to solving problems, leading teams, and shaping strategic initiatives. Among his notable achievements, he co-founded the edtech startup Money Experience Inc. where he led the development of an award-winning financial literacy software platform that was widely adopted by K-12, higher ed, non-profits, and financial institutions.  As Head of Operations at Redstar Media, he helped build a thriving community around live-produced events and video content, resulting in 3 Emmy Awards and many more nominations.  Most recently, he supported startups and small businesses in his role as Director of Operations at the financial services firm Mighty Financial.  Steve’s time as a business leader and entrepreneur was preceded by a successful career in the music industry, working in the studio with Grammy Award-winning producers and touring with renowned artists both nationally and internationally.

Steve has lived in the Boston area for over 25 years and currently resides in Medford.  He enjoys spending time with his family at the beach, fishing, bike riding, and hiking in the Fells.

[email protected]

Shira Burns is the Communications Manager. She oversees public relations and communications to DBEDC constituents, and the organization’s print and digital marketing.

Shira is passionate about nonprofit communications and storytelling. Prior to this role, she managed communications for the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston. Shira holds an MA in Communication from Johns Hopkins University.

In her free time Shira enjoys volunteering with Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters and playing with her cat.

[email protected]

David Nardelli is the Data and Evaluations Manager. They oversee DBEDC’s transition and utilization of a unified data management software across the organization.

David Nardelli deeply cares about the impacts of affordable housing for vulnerable populations, and how data can be utilized to empower marginalized communities. Prior to working at DBEDC, they oversaw the transition to a digital HMIS at Commonwealth Land Trust, a permanent supportive housing provider in Boston. David graduated from Northeastern with an MS in Urban Planning and Policy.

David lives in Dorchester with his two roommates and cat, and spends his time biking and rock climbing in his neighborhood.

[email protected]

Temique Roach supports the entire organization in her role as Administrative Coordinator, serving as the first point of contact and connection with the community. In her most recent role, Temique served as Residential Advocate at Casa Myrna Vazquez, supporting program participants. Previous roles also include Berkeley Research Group and Mass Health. Temique is also a member of the Community Care and Connection Circle through the MAWOCN (Mass Woman of Color Network).
In her free time, Temique enjoys spending time with her son and cooking and hosting for family.

[email protected]

617-681-5458

At Dorchester Bay EDC, Samariah works to define and cultivate an organizational culture that is collaborative, inclusive, empowering, and culturally sensitive, while administering all human resources functions. Prior to this role, Samariah worked in many HR leadership roles with a focus in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Samariah’s career in human resources began in 2011 with Upham’s Community Care (previously Upham’s Community Health Center). Previously, she was the HR Director for the Department of Transitional Assistance where she supported a staff of over 1,600 employees. She also served as the Employee Relations Specialist for the Massachusetts Teachers Association. Samariah is currently enrolled in the MBA HR Management accelerated program with Fitchburg State University and is expected to graduate in 2024.

[email protected]
617-533-9551

Ruth Cormier serves as the People and Culture Coordinator at Dorchester Bay EDC, where she is committed to creating an inclusive workplace environment. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Lesley University, Ruth draws on her knowledge in behavioral dynamics to cultivate an inclusive and collaborative organizational culture.
Before joining Dorchester Bay EDC, Ruth gained extensive experience in administrative and HR-related roles, honing her skills in talent acquisition, onboarding, HR and admin support. Her background equips her to support the growth and well-being of both individuals and teams, fostering a culture where all employees feel valued and empowered.
Outside of work, Ruth enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their dog, Marnie.

[email protected]

Susan is the Director of Real Estate. Prior to DBEDC, Susan worked at a Chinatown nonprofit where she led the organization through several affordable housing development initiatives and projects, including the development of 85 new units of affordable rental housing. Before entering the world of affordable housing, Susan practiced law for several years, representing individuals, private companies, and nonprofit organizations in various civil and transactional matters, including zoning appeals.

[email protected]
617-533-9561

Alex is the Senior Project Manager on the Real Estate team. He manages the Columbia Crossing project in Upham’s Corner and supports other real estate projects and initiatives.

Alex is passionate about developing high-quality, affordable housing in the Greater Boston Area and advocating for policy that supports households struggling to afford rising housing costs.

Before Dorchester Bay, Alex worked at the Somerville Community Corporation where he managed the “100 Homes” scattered site affordable housing program that acquired and converted existing multifamily housing to deed-restricted affordable homes. He has also previously worked at the City of Somerville’s Housing Division developing new anti-displacement and affordable housing production policies.

[email protected]
617-533-9566

Lanette Johnson is a HBCU graduate from Virginian Union University with 10+ years experience in the education field, ranging from preschool to kindergarten. Lanette’s most recent job was at the Boston Renaissance Charter School in Hyde Park. Lanette is currently serving her fellowship at Dorchester Bay through the Fellowship for Equitable Affordable Housing Development, a two-year program from Urban Edge, The Neighborhood Developers, and OppCo designed to bring more People of Color into the field of affordable housing development. In her free time, she likes to spend time with my family, especially her daughter. She loves plants and likes to cook. She also started a small juice business this year.

“I believe everyone deserves to have a place to call home and the affordable housing developments will help eliminate those housing insecurities. This fellowship is breaking barriers and giving women or color an opportunity to make a change and I am grateful to be an inaugural member of such an amazing opportunity.”

[email protected]

Briana is a Real Estate Project Manager who supports various housing and mixed-use development projects. Briana has an academic background in political science and urban planning and is deeply passionate about affordable housing, urban design, and community outreach. With a diverse background in real estate, encompassing affordable housing development and commercial real estate acquisitions, development, and property management, she is dedicated to advancing community and economic development through the built environment.

Briana loves outdoor activities including hiking, climbing, and backpacking, and also enjoys knitting and crocheting. For the past few years, she has been a volunteer and facilitator for the City of Cambridge’s Participatory Budgeting initiative and hopes to make participating in local government more accessible and engaging for all.

[email protected]
617-533-9586

Tim assists the Real Estate team in the development of new housing projects for the Dorchester/Upham’s Corner community. For the last 5+ years, Tim worked as a Rehabilitation Specialist at Just A Start in Cambridge, providing logistical and technical assistance to low/moderate income homeowners with their home improvement projects. Tim also worked with the Community Development Dept. for the City of Cambridge, to refurbish first-time homebuyer units for the resale market.

“Even though I am not native to New England, for 25+ years now I still enjoy finding new places and activities to explore. Recently, I volunteered for a nearby elementary school to help 1st and 2nd graders with reading and comprehension. I also volunteered as a grant writer for the West End Museum to help with major renovation projects and exhibit construction.”

[email protected]
617-533-9564

Angie is an outgoing and passionate person who strongly believes everyone deserves a place to call home! She has worked in different departments throughout her time in affordable housing, such as inspections, compliance, and of course resident services. Throughout her experience, she has learned that being out in her community and serving the residents is exactly where she is supposed to be.

As a member of the community and having over 10 years of housing experience, she looks forward to being an advocate for residents, and a support system for the management team. Angie encourages the community to advocate for the changes that they want to see. Her number one goal is to reassure them that they are living and working in the safest and most enjoyable community, all while staying in compliance with their lease.

[email protected]
617-533-9576

Vanessa, a Boston native, has dedicated her career to bridging gaps in healthcare and housing to uplift underserved communities, developing a passion for community-driven solutions. She led the implementation of a patient portal technology initiative, launching a patient portal across six community health centers to address health disparities, empowering patients to manage chronic conditions while fostering stronger patient-provider relationships and advancing health equity.

In addition to healthcare innovation, Vanessa has made significant strides in housing services. As a former Triage Manager, she streamlined intake processes and created pathways to divert individuals from shelters into sustainable housing. Her holistic approach addressed the root causes of homelessness and strengthened the social determinants of health.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Vanessa loves exploring new destinations, indulging in her love for food as a certified foodie, and staying active as an avid gym-goer. Her dedication to community, health, equity, and personal growth reflects her commitment to creating a balanced and impactful life.

[email protected]
(617) 533-9553

Felicia is a Resident Services Coordinator, and previously served as a climate justice community organizer for the Fairmount Indigo CDC Collaborative (FICC), organizing for climate justice and health equity. Felicia was born and raised in Boston, MA in the Dorchester neighborhood. In her free time, Felicia enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading and cooking.

“Getting involved with community advocacy comes very naturally for me; My parents have always been involved with community advocacy, so I have learned by example. I have been a volunteer for over 20 years with the Massachusetts Affordable Housing Alliance (MAHA), advocating for affordable homeownership in the City of Boston and the State of Massachusetts.” – Felicia Richard

[email protected]
617-533-9560

Karen “Cookie” Sheers works closely with our residents and teaches the Technology Goes Home computer class. Cookie has successfully graduated over 650 students in or around the Dorchester area. 15 years ago, Cookie started at Dorchester Bay as an AmeriCorps VISTA member then became the Administrative Assistant/ Building Manager to Resident Service Coordinator for Dudley Village N&S.

Cookie is professionally trained in Early Childhood Education and School Age Child Care. With over 12 years of experience, Cookie has worked at several youth programs that include the Dorchester YMCA and Bird Street Community Center.

[email protected]
617-533-9554

Samantha Menard is the Resource Development Manager at Dorchester Bay EDC. She is a visionary strategist expertly devising tactical action plans to support and raise vital funds for programs that promote economically equitable outcomes. She oversees the Resource Development team, responsible for fundraising, grant direction, and donor relations.

For the last 15 years, Samantha has been amplifying resources, power, and collaboration in nonprofit spaces committed to social justice. Before DBEDC, she served as a Chief Operating Officer for an organization that supports non-violent, mother-tongue education in rural communities of Haiti.

Samantha holds a Master of Media Management and a Bachelor of Arts from Boston University. She is an avid traveler currently DIY-ing a zen backyard space, struggling to discover her green thumb, and experimenting in the kitchen with her two spirited preschoolers.

[email protected]
617-533-9569

As the Donor Relations Manager (DRM), Laurene collaborates with the Resource Development Director to develop, plan, implement and evaluate fundraising approaches, including sponsorships and annual giving, to sustain and grow revenue and the donor base. Laurene started her career in the Non-Profit world in 2020 at Codman Square NDC as the Executive Assistant/Special Projects manager. While there she worked on various projects that focused on improving the quality of life and economic stability in the Dorchester community. Prior to working at CSNDC she worked as a Program Coordinator at Mass General Hospital in the Telehealth Department. Laurene holds a BS in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. She lives in Dorchester and enjoys volunteering at different community events and organizations, as well as reading and traveling.

[email protected]
617-250-0711

As Grants Manager, Allison identifies and leads new business development initiatives, builds relationships with donors and strategic partners, and manages the implementation of DBEDC’s contracts and grants.

Allison holds a professional and educational background in economic development, equality, and human rights. She has worked previously as a Senior Program Officer with Partners of the Americas, supporting the implementation of projects to promote human and labor rights and gender equality. She has also worked in the Multi-Agency Coordination Unit of Standing Together Against Domestic Violence, helping to coordinate the efforts of local service providers to protect high-risk victims of abuse. She additionally worked in resource development at Women for Women International, identifying and engaging sources of funding for the organization. Allison has a master’s degree in Gender, Development, and Globalization from The London School of Economics, and a bachelor’s degree in International Development and Latin American Studies from The George Washington University.

In her free time, Allison enjoys going for hikes, baking, and growing her houseplant collection. She is a native English speaker and fluent in Spanish.

[email protected]

Tia Jackson is an accomplished, achievement-driven financial services business manager with FINRA series 7, 66, Property & Casualty, Life Accident and Health licenses, and 20+ years in leadership roles. She has relevant and diverse experience in corporate sales and marketing, relationship management, customer-obsessed service, and a strong background in overseeing operational activities. Tia has enjoyed collaborating and working strategically with key leaders and business partners across business lines. She also enjoys contributing as part of a team and sharing her holistic financial planning expertise and experience, along with coaching and developing financial professionals who highly value building meaningful long-term client relationships and customized financial solutions to meet their needs and goals. She aligns well with a work culture that highly values coaching, which leads to growth at every level.

Tia is passionate about building personal relationships based on trust. She’s an advocate for her clients with whom she can relate by serving the needs of individuals, families, and small businesses. She enjoys contributing to improving the lives of others and working together to build a foundation that makes our communities better and stronger.

Tia’s interests include running, hiking, bicycling, travel, cooking, dining out, gardening, community service, and spending time with family and friends.

[email protected]

Andrew is a credit and finance professional who prides himself on the ability to manage complex credit facilities, ensuring compliance and identifying strategic opportunities that drive business growth. As a Senior Loan Officer, Andrew has worked with numerous small and medium-sized local businesses, helping them access capital and providing technical training. He brings over fifteen years of experience in lending and credit management, specializing in small business lending, commercial credit underwriting, real estate portfolio management, and loan documentation. Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, and a Master of Business Administration from Curry College in Milton, Massachusetts. Andrew has called the Boston area home for over 27 years and currently lives in Somerville. In his free time, he enjoys traveling both domestically and internationally, photography, the beach, deep-sea fishing and kayaking on the Charles.

[email protected]
617-533-9552

Brenda works to provide clients with loans, grants, and technical assistance. Brenda is bilingual and worked for two small businesses in California before joining Dorchester Bay. Brenda started as in admin here at Dorchester Bay back in 2017 and transitioned into small business in 2018. She attended Cambridge College for her Business Development Certification and also participated in the NALCAB Pete Garcia Community Economic Development Fellowship and got her certificate.

[email protected]
617-533-9578

Nicholas “Nick” Fernandes is a Lending and Outreach Officer with the Small Business team. Nick is a strong believer and proponent of economic empowerment and equity. In his most recent role as an owner/operator of the award-winning JJ’s Caffe in Brockton, MA, Nick has been in the shoes of Dorchester Bay small business clients. At JJ’s, Nick, along with his family strived to create a warm and welcoming environment for everyone, living by the motto “Enter as Strangers, Leave as Friends.”

Nick was born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. He is an alumnus of the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and earned his MBA from Babson College.

Nick brings this vision of servant leadership to Dorchester Bay EDC. He loves to help people and their businesses grow and flourish.

[email protected]
(617) 533-9571

As the Director of Workforce Development at Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (DBEDC), Carolina Leins-Sultan leads the strategic planning, design, and execution of the Dorchester Bay Workforce Development Program. With over 15 years of dedicated experience as a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), Carolina has transitioned from direct service roles to impactful program management, driving systemic change and enhancing community well-being.

Carolina holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her expertise is further enhanced by certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Trauma-Informed Child Welfare, Multi-Contextual Trauma Treatment, and Forensic Services. These credentials support her comprehensive approach to workforce development.

In her previous role as Strategic Partnerships and Workforce Development Program Manager, Carolina managed grants and spearheaded initiatives to engage diverse stakeholders, promote supplier diversity, and increase and diversify the energy efficiency workforce. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to serving marginalized communities, advocating for others, and empowering individuals to enhance their skills and achieve self-sufficiency.

Fluent in Spanish, Carolina effectively engages and supports diverse communities. Her strategic leadership and commitment to equity drive sustainable solutions and foster long-term societal impact. Carolina is a Boston-native and is committed to serving her community.

[email protected]
(617) 533-9573

WaWa is a mission-oriented professional with five years of experience building intentional relationships while inspiring positive behavioral change among at-risk, proven-risk, and gang-involved youths. He is a proactive leader combining passion for social justice with proven ability to identify, resolve, and de-escalate violent conflicts. Expertise includes designing employment and re-entry programs, anti-violence initiatives, staff trainings, and securing network of community partners. He was named 2022 Volunteer of the Year by Three Squares Main Street, City of Boston. Previously, he has worked for the City of Boston, directly engaging with families, individuals, at-risk youths, gang-involved youths, and young adults to build trust, develop relationships, and promote/support behavioral change away from gang-related and self-destructive activities. He also worked Community Outreach Coordinator for the Boston Job Coalition, educating and organizing residents to serve as advocates for equal access to economic and housing justice, as an Outreach Coordinator for MissionSAFE, and is Co-Founder and Vice President of the Nubian Square Foundation. WaWa a father of three, grew up in Roxbury, and plays the drums.

[email protected]
617-533-9581

Kendra Beaver is the Climate Justice Coordinator for the Fairmount Indigo CDC Collaborative (FICC), an umbrella organization of which DBEDC is a member along with Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation and Southwest Boston Community Development Corporation. FICC works to bring climate justice and health equity to the communities united by the Fairmount Rail Line.

Kendra holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies with a minor in Political Science from Dickinson College. Prior to joining FICC, Kendra worked in philanthropy, urban agriculture, sustainability in higher education, regional government, and watershed conservation.

Kendra is a proud resident of Dorchester and served on the board as Secretary of the St. Marks Area Civic Association for two years. She is also a member-owner of the Dorchester Food Co-op and a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts program.

[email protected]
617-533-9565

Andrealis Martinez Padilla is one of the two Climate Justice Community Organizers for the Fairmount Indigo CDC Collaborative. She’s originally from Puerto Rico, and her first language is Spanish. Andrealis traveled all the way to Springfield, Massachusetts to get her Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from Bay Path University! After working, studying, understanding, and connecting with the earth, she understood the importance of taking care of what provides us with basic human needs. She enjoys volunteering at OASIS on Ballou Urban Community Farm right in Dorchester, MA. Andrealis enjoys empowering the community to learn and understand the importance of climate change, and connecting and networking with members interested in being part of the change. She is loves her role at FICC since it’s been an amazing learning experience.

[email protected]
617-533-9572